# Where does my gross salary disappear?
It's the most common surprise in a first job: you sign a contract for €24,000 a year, divide by 12 expecting €2,000 a month, and find €1,600 in your account. Where are the other €400?In Spain, the difference between Gross (what the company pays) and Net (what you receive) is split between two main items: IRPF and Social Security. Understanding them is key to negotiating salary increases.# Social Security: The ~6.35% that funds your future
It is a fixed contribution for almost all workers. It does not depend on whether you are single or married. With this money you finance:- Common Contingencies (4.70%): Covers absences due to common illness, non-work accidents, retirement and maternity.
- Unemployment (1.55% or 1.60%): Your contribution to claim unemployment benefits if you lose your job. Varies slightly if the contract is temporary.
- Professional Training (0.10%): For subsidized training courses and retraining.
# IRPF: The tax that hurts the most
It is progressive and can range from 2% to 47% depending on your salary and personal situation. It is not a fixed tax; it is an advance payment to the Treasury. The company calculates how much you should pay in taxes next year and deducts it month by month.# Factors that lower your IRPF
- Having children (especially under 3 years old).
- Having a recognized disability (>33%).
- Having a spouse in charge with low income.
# State IRPF Brackets (Approx. 2026)
- €0 - €12,450: 19%
- €12,450 - €20,200: 24%
- €20,200 - €35,200: 30%
- €35,200 - €60,000: 37%
- > €60,000: 45%
# The eternal question: 12 or 14 pay periods?
Many workers prefer 14 pay periods for the extra payments in summer and Christmas. Others prefer (or the company imposes) spreading the pay over 12 months. Mathematically, you earn exactly the same per year.- 12 PAY PERIODS: You earn more each month, but have no bonuses. Better for constant monthly cash flow.
- 14 PAY PERIODS: You earn a bit less each month, but receive two double payments per year. Works like "forced savings".